What is the difference between the Formal Evaluation and Informal Review?

1 Answer

The Formal Evaluation is a conversation and a written document that reviews past performance and plans for future improvements or growth. The formal evaluation assesses an employee’s performance during the previous year. The supervisor evaluates performance based on the position description’ s job expectations and on the achievement of established goals. Also during the formal evaluation there is time to look to the future, set new goals and reestablish expectations. The Informal Review is a progress report. It is an opportunity for the supervisor and the employee to discuss how work is progressing. It’s an opportunity for either the employee or the supervisor to share concerns, reevaluate resources and training needs, or readjust the goals and objectives. The informal review discussion is shorter to complete. Both the formal evaluation and the informal review require written and signed documentation.